Lead Satellite Mechanical Integration Engineer

 

Job Summary: 
As the Lead Mechanical Engineer for Launch Operations, you will play a critical role in preparing our spacecraft for launch. You’ll work closely with internal engineering teams, launch vehicle providers, and ground support personnel to support integration, test, and pre-launch operations. This is a dynamic, field-based role requiring excellent mechanical engineering knowledge, strong communication skills, and a proactive, problem-solving mindset. 

This position involves hands-on work at launch sites to ensure satellites are safely handled in the final preparations for integration with the launch vehicle. 

Responsibilities: 

• Serve as the on-site mechanical engineering representative for satellite integration with launch vehicles. 

• Coordinate and oversee mechanical integration, handling, transportation, and final mate of the satellite with the launch vehicle. 

• Work directly with launch vehicle providers and ground support teams to ensure compliance with interface and mechanical requirements. 

• Develop and execute mechanical procedures related to launch site activities (e.g., lifting, securing, pressurization, and environmental enclosures). 

• Support spacecraft launch campaigns including final checkouts, mechanical troubleshooting, and anomaly resolution. 

• Ensure mechanical ground support equipment (MGSE) is used safely and effectively. 

• Maintain documentation and provide detailed reporting of all launch site activities. 

• Ensure all hardware and processes meet safety, quality, and launch provider standards. 

• Work closely with mission assurance teams to verify readiness. 

• Collaborate with systems, electrical, and software engineers to support integrated operations and issue resolution. 

Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (Master’s degree is a plus). 

• 5+ years of experience in satellite launch operations or satellite integration and testing.  

• Experience with launch vehicle integration and satellite mechanical systems (structures, thermal, deployment mechanisms, etc.). 

• Experience with environmental testing and spaceflight hardware. 

• Proficient with mechanical CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and engineering documentation. 

• Familiarity with aerospace materials, fasteners, and ground support equipment. 

• Strong understanding of launch site safety procedures and environmental controls. 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 

• Ability to work in high-pressure launch environments. 

• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally to support launch campaigns, sometimes for weeks at a time. 

• U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency required. 
• Must be able to pass background check to access Cape Canaveral, an active US military base. 

This position plays a critical role in ensuring the success of our satellite missions. If you are passionate about space and satellite technology, we encourage you to apply!